This family-run fonda is the place to go for breakfast in Mexico City. Upon arriving, I quickly realized that my expectations would be met, even before being seated and taking a first bite. The big line of locals outside (with no tourist in sight), the car wash next door, the musicians playing Mexican songs and the “”family-style” shared metal tables all indicated that I was in for a treat.

After waiting in line for no longer than a few minutes, that was well received for me to actually soak in my surroundings, I was led inside. It was not particularly easy to pick between the beautiful guisados displayed in the cazuelas (clay pots) that they were cooked in. So I decided to ask the two working men sitting at my table, and they were kind enough to enthusiastically suggest their favorite picks.

The refried black beans mixed with scrambled eggs is a lardy and special dish that will give anyone an energy boost. Among the hearty stews, another signature dish is the chicharron cooked in a sour green salsa that contrasted really well the fat of the pork skin.

Locals came to @fondamargarita from all over the city, each of them looking for something different in the comforting homey flavors of their food: from a good way to start a long day ahead, to the cure for a hangover from the previous night.

As for me, I found just what I was looking for in there as well and the place offered a unique insight into their daily life. The bustling and familiar environment is as authentic a Mexican experience as a tourist can have. I could not help but smile between each bite, while I practiced my rusty Spanish with the people around me.

(Versão em Português nos comentários)